Is this a common practice?

[hallelujah7]

Visit the top domain for the keyword you're trying to get ranked for, see who is linking to them, and request a link from all of them.

[tyggemannen]

Yes, definately.

[adamovic]

Has anybody used some tool to do that automaticly?

[feros]

I've never used a tool, but yes I do this when I'm starting a new site.

[tyggemannen]

There is no tool to ask other people automaticly for a link, semi-auto yes.

[hallelujah7]

Interesting.

[HJMAX007]

I have used tools(good to identify people and e-mails), but just as easy to write a good request on your e-mail and just cut and paste to as many people as you wish to contact. Try to make it as personal as you can.

Good Luck!:D

[tyggemannen]

I think the best thing to do is to find the linkpartners in the search engines, you know search:
link:thetopdomain.com

[maney]

Ooooh, nice idea. I've never thought of that one, thanks :D